The Odisha government has decided to extend its sponsorship of Hockey India until 2036, which coincides with the centenary year of the state’s formation in 1936.
This announcement follows a meeting between a delegation from Hockey India and Odisha’s new Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at the state guest house in Bhubaneswar.
“During the meeting, we discussed the advancement of sports and strategies to elevate our beloved sport to new heights.
We are deeply thankful to government of Odisha for its steadfast support and commitment to Indian hockey,” said Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey.
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh expressed that the Odisha government has been a steadfast supporter and a crucial pillar of strength for the sport of hockey.
India captain, Harmanoreet Singh, spotted with the Hockey India general secretary, Bholanath Singh
“The decision to consider extending our partnership until 2036 underscores their dedication to sports and youth development,” he said.
In 2018, the Odisha Mining Corporation Ltd (OMC), a state-run PSU, entered into a sponsorship agreement with Hockey India for the Indian Hockey Teams (Men/Women, Senior/Junior) lasting from 2018 to 2023.
Following the impressive performance of the men’s and women’s teams at the Tokyo Olympics, the Odisha government decided to extend this sponsorship for an additional 10 years, up to 2033.
As part of this extension, OMC committed to providing a total sum of Rs 434 crore (excluding applicable taxes) to Hockey India over this period.
With the recent three-year extension, the sponsorship from the Odisha government to Hockey India will now continue until 2036.
This extension is significant as it coincides with the year when the Olympic Games will be held, emphasizing Odisha’s commitment to supporting hockey through significant milestones in sports.
Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj highlighted that hockey enjoys significant popularity among the youth in Odisha.
He emphasized that the government’s decision to extend the sponsorship until 2036 aims to further enhance the sport’s growth and attract more young players to participate in and excel at hockey.
